Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps reduce appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. When combined with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity, it has been shown to support significant and sustainable weight loss. Clinical trials report that users can lose up to 15% of their body weight after 12 months of treatment.

Wegovy vs Other Weight Loss Injections

GLP-1 medications like Wegovy help you feel full for longer, making it easier to manage hunger and reduce calorie intake.

GLP-1 vs Dual Incretin Therapies

Dual-action injections, such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), work by targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual mechanism has been associated with even greater weight loss. Studies show Mounjaro can help people lose up to 25.3% of their body weight after 88 weeks at the highest dose.

In comparison, Wegovy users typically achieve up to 15% weight loss over a year, while Ozempic, only licensed for type 2 diabetes treatment in the UK, may lead to around 7% weight loss.

Clinical Trial Results for Wegovy

Wegovy has been extensively studied in clinical trials. Participants receiving Wegovy, alongside diet and exercise, achieved:

• Average weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group.
• 83.5% of users lost at least 5% of their body weight.
• After 6 months, 90% lost at least 5% of their starting weight.
• After a year, 60% lost more than 15%, and nearly 40% lost over 20% of their starting weight.

NICE Recommendation

Because of these strong results, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved Wegovy for use in adults with obesity or weight-related health risks.

Heart Health Benefits

Wegovy has also demonstrated cardioprotective effects, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with obesity (Singh et al, 2022).

Setting Healthy Weight Loss Goals

For best results, Wegovy should be used as part of a wider weight-loss plan (Wilding et al, 2021; Rubino et al, 2021; NovoMEDLINK, 2024). Clinical trials included:

• A reduced-calorie diet
• Regular physical activity

A realistic goal is to lose 1–2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per week. Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure the treatment is right for your needs.

Wegovy vs Mounjaro: New Trial Insights

To see how Wegovy compares to Mounjaro in the latest head-to-head trial results from May 2025, visit our Wegovy vs Mounjaro blog.

Wegovy is a weekly injection that contains semaglutide, a prescription-only medicine used to support weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27+ if weight-related health conditions are present. You can request Wegovy online from UK Meds by completing a short medical questionnaire. If suitable, a registered prescriber will issue a prescription, and your treatment will be delivered directly to your door.

How It Works

1. Complete a free online consultation.
2. Your answers are reviewed by a registered prescriber.
3. If approved, your prescription is sent to the pharmacy team for dispatch.

Now in Stock

Available in 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg, and 2.4mg pens. Each pen contains four once-weekly doses. Treatment starts at the lowest strength and gradually increases every four weeks, depending on your progress and how well you tolerate the medication.

Do I Need a Prescription for Wegovy?

Yes. Wegovy is a prescription-only medication and is not available over the counter in the UK. At UK Meds, a free private prescription is included as part of the consultation process, subject to approval by a registered prescriber.

Why Is a Prescription Required?

A prescription ensures Wegovy is safe and suitable for you. Your BMI, medical history, and any current medications will be assessed by a healthcare professional before approval. This helps reduce risks and ensures the treatment is part of a safe, effective weight loss plan.

Private Prescription for Wegovy

If you're eligible, you can get Wegovy through a private prescription using an online consultation at UK Meds. There are no additional charges for the prescription itself, and the process is secure and confidential.

Wegovy Alternatives

If semaglutide isn’t right for you, other prescription options may include:

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
• Saxenda (liraglutide)
• Orlistat (also known as Xenical or Alli)

A healthcare professional can help you choose the right treatment based on your goals and medical history.

Want to Know More?

For a detailed overview of how to get started, including eligibility and dosage guidance, visit our Wegovy buyer’s guide.

Choose the Best Delivery Options

Decide on the best discreet delivery option for your order below.

Please note: Delivery options and pricing are subject to change. For the latest information on UK Meds delivery options please visit our delivery page to learn more. You can also read our other policies including our returns process.

Looking to purchase Wegovy in the UK? Below is a guide to current prices for the Wegovy FlexTouch across all available strengths. Each pen contains four once-weekly doses and is priced based on the dosage prescribed as part of your treatment plan.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost?

The cost per pen starts from £124.99* / month. If titrating all the way up to the maximum dose and maintaining, the annual cost is £3,149.87.

Treatment begins with a low starting dose, which may be gradually increased every four weeks based on your progress.

One pen contains four doses, so a pen lasts for 4 weeks.

Please note: Pricing is subject to change. For the latest information please refer to the consultation section at the top of the product information page.

For more information on the prescription medication patients should refer to the Wegovy patient information leaflet.

Wegovy has received a range of feedback from users, as individual results vary depending on health, lifestyle and how your body responds to treatment. You can read real user stories to better understand what to expect.

Customer Experiences

Find out how UK Meds customers have found Wegovy during their weight loss journeys. For wider perspectives, see independent reviews on sites like Drugs.com and WebMD.

Keep in mind, no two experiences are the same. Mixed reviews don’t mean the treatment won’t work for you. It's important to speak with your doctor to determine whether Wegovy is suitable for your needs.

Is Wegovy Suitable for Me?

Wegovy is a prescription weight loss treatment designed for adults living with obesity or weight-related conditions. Eligibility is typically based on BMI and individual health risks:

• Recommended by NICE for adults with a BMI of 35+ and at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure).
• Available at a BMI of 30+ in certain cases, where criteria for specialist weight management are met.
• Lower BMI thresholds may apply to people from ethnic groups with increased risk, including South Asian, Black African, and Middle Eastern backgrounds.
• Wegovy should be used as part of a broader plan that includes healthy eating and physical activity.

Always consult your healthcare provider to see if Wegovy is a safe and appropriate treatment for you.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a weekly weight loss injection containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite and helps regulate blood sugar. It is licensed in the UK for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ if they have weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

This prescription-only treatment works best when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Administered once weekly, Wegovy helps users feel fuller for longer and supports long-term behaviour change to aid sustainable weight loss.

Why Wegovy Matters

Obesity is a growing concern in the UK, costing the NHS an estimated £6.5 billion annually. By helping manage obesity and related conditions like diabetes and heart disease, Wegovy supports better public health outcomes and may reduce NHS pressure (GOV.UK, 2023).

Its role in the rising global obesity drug market-which is expected to exceed $77 billion by 2030, places Wegovy among leading treatments like Mounjaro and Saxenda (Morgan Stanley, 2023).

How Does Wegovy Work?

The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the natural hormone GLP-1, which is released after eating and helps regulate appetite. It signals the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to consume fewer calories and adopt healthier eating habits (Collins et al, 2023).

Wegovy targets specific brain receptors to manage appetite and promote weight loss. It is most effective when used alongside lifestyle changes, including:

• Eating a nutritious, calorie-controlled diet
• Engaging in regular physical activity

Is Wegovy Approved for Heart Health?

Yes. In July 2024, the UK’s MHRA approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes in people with a high BMI and existing heart conditions (Pharmacy Magazine, 2024).

This followed a 17,600-participant trial which showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events over five years with weekly Wegovy use (Lincoff et al., 2023).

Why This Matters

Wegovy offers dual benefits, supporting both weight loss and cardiovascular health, making it an important treatment for those managing obesity alongside heart conditions. If you're concerned about your weight or heart health, speak to your GP or healthcare provider to discuss whether Wegovy is right for you.

Want to Learn More?

Visit our Beginner’s Guide to Wegovy to understand how semaglutide works, eligibility requirements, and how to get your weight loss programme started with treatment through a free online consultation at UK Meds.

How to Use a Wegovy Pen

Wegovy is a once-weekly weight loss injection delivered via a pre-filled pen. Each dose is administered under the skin (subcutaneous) in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Follow your prescriber’s instructions and the official Instructions for Use leaflet included with your medication.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare

• Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab or soap and water.
• Attach the needle (provided) and have cotton wool or gauze ready.

Step 2: Inject

1. Remove the pen cap.
2. Inject into the stomach (avoiding the belly button), thigh, or upper arm.
3. After injection, apply light pressure with gauze or cotton wool if needed.

Your prescriber may help you track your weight loss progress and provide additional support with managing your treatment.

Where to Inject Wegovy

Inject into the fatty layer beneath the skin. The most common areas include:

• Stomach (at least 2 inches away from the navel)
• Thigh
• Upper arm

If you're unsure, speak to your prescriber or refer to the patient leaflet.

Stopping Wegovy

Wegovy is not addictive and can be stopped without tapering. However, stopping may lead to weight regain, so always consult your prescriber before discontinuing.

For additional tips on side effect management, healthy eating, and exercise while on treatment, read the UK Meds Wegovy Guide To Using A Wegovy Injection: Advice, Tips and Recommendations.

Does Wegovy Need to Be Kept In The Fridge?

Yes, Wegovy must be stored in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C before first use. After opening, it can be kept for up to 6 weeks at either:

• Room temperature (below 30°C), or
• In the fridge.

Important: Do not freeze Wegovy. If the pen becomes frozen or exposed to frost, it should be discarded. Using thawed or partially frozen medication may result in an inaccurate dose and is unsafe.

Does Wegovy Expire?

Once opened, each pen expires 6 weeks from the first use, regardless of whether it's stored in the fridge or at room temperature. Ensure it stays between 2°C and 30°C. After this period, any remaining medication must be disposed of safely.

Disposing of Used or Expired Pens

Wegovy pens are classed as medical waste and must not be thrown in household rubbish. In the UK:

• Use a sharps bin for disposal. Your GP or pharmacy can provide one if needed.
• Return full sharps containers to your local pharmacy for safe handling.

PenCycle Scheme

Eco tip: Wegovy pens can now be recycled through Novo Nordisk’s PenCycle programme. Check participating UK pharmacies to return your used pens for sustainable disposal.

Recommended Starting Dose

Wegovy is a once-weekly weight loss injection containing semaglutide. To reduce the risk of side effects, the dose is increased gradually over 16 weeks. Treatment starts with a low dose and builds up to a full maintenance dose of 2.4 mg, helping your body adjust over time but this isn't the same for everybody. You may prefer staying on a lower dose if you experience side effects on higher doses. Don't change how much you take without speaking with your healthcare provider first.

Wegovy Titration Schedule

Each injection is taken once a week, ideally on the same day each week, with or without food. Starting at 0.25 mg helps your body get used to the treatment before progressing to higher doses.

What If You Miss a Dose?

• If it's been 5 days or less: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then return to your usual weekly schedule.
• If more than 5 days have passed: Skip the missed dose and wait for your next scheduled injection. Never take two doses within 72 hours.

How Long Does a Wegovy Pen Last?

Each Wegovy pen contains four doses and comes with four needles. Depending on your prescribed strength, one pen usually lasts four weeks. As you move to higher doses, you’ll need pens that match your prescribed amount.

When Should You Take Wegovy?

• Inject once every 7 days on a consistent weekday.
• You can take it at any time of day, with or without food.
• If you need to change your injection day, wait at least 3 days after your last dose.

Using Wegovy Safely

1. Follow the dosing plan recommended by your healthcare provider.
2. Only change your dose with medical advice.
3. For full guidance, refer to the official Wegovy Instructions for Use or read the UK Meds Wegovy Dosing & Titration Guide.

With the right dosage schedule and medical supervision, Wegovy can be a safe and effective part of your weight loss journey.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Use Wegovy?

Wegovy is suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27+ if they have weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. It may also be prescribed for young people aged 12 and over with obesity, under medical supervision (NovoMEDLINK, 2023).

Wegovy is not suitable for:

• Children under 12
• Anyone allergic to semaglutide or ingredients in the injection
• People with a BMI below 30 (unless they meet specific medical criteria)
• Those who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to limited safety data. If you're planning to conceive, stop treatment at least two months beforehand (Nuako et al, 2023).

Alcohol and Drug Interactions

• Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking.
• Alcohol can affect blood sugar and may worsen side effects. Limit intake where possible.

Why Speak to Your Healthcare Provider First?

Before starting Wegovy, it's important to discuss:

• Your full medical history, including diabetes, kidney disease or eye conditions
• All medicines you’re taking to avoid interactions
• Your goals for weight loss and whether Wegovy fits your needs

Wegovy should always be used alongside lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Speak to a doctor to check if it’s the right treatment for you.

For a full list of warnings and precautions, see Section 2 of the official Patient Information Leaflet.

What are the side effects of Wegovy?

Like all prescription medicines, Wegovy (semaglutide) may cause side effects. These can range from mild to serious and vary between individuals. Most are manageable, especially when monitored by a healthcare provider.

Common Wegovy Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Feeling weak or tired
• Complications in diabetic eye disease (especially if you have a history of this)

Serious Side Effects – When to Seek Medical Help

Though rare, serious side effects can occur. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

Important Considerations

Some patients with longstanding diabetes may have a higher risk of complications like diabetic retinopathy. Research suggests that semaglutide does not raise the overall risk but caution is advised in certain cases.

If you experience side effects, do not stop using Wegovy without medical guidance. Always speak to your doctor or refer to section 4 of the patient information leaflet for a full list of side effects.

Understanding Wegovy: Benefits and Risks

To weigh up the benefits and potential side effects of Wegovy, visit our UK Meds guide to the benefits and risks of using Wegovy.

What About Compounded Semaglutide?

Compounded versions of semaglutide may be cheaper but are not regulated or approved for use in the UK. They carry risks such as inconsistent dosing and unknown side effects. For safety, always choose licensed medications like Wegovy and speak to a registered healthcare provider before starting treatment (Patel, R.; 2023).

Which weight loss medications can I try instead of Wegovy?

If Wegovy isn’t suitable for you, UK Meds offers other weight loss treatments that may help, including Saxenda, Orlistat, and Mounjaro. Your doctor or healthcare provider can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your health needs.

How do weight loss medications compare?

Here’s how some of the most commonly prescribed weight loss medications differ:

How does Wegovy compare to other medications?

Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Wegovy uses semaglutide to reduce appetite. Mounjaro uses tirzepatide, which mimics both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, offering dual-action effects. Both are weekly injections, but Mounjaro has shown faster and greater weight loss results in studies. Read more on Mounjaro vs Wegovy.

Wegovy vs Saxenda

While both treatments suppress appetite, Wegovy is a weekly injection, whereas Saxenda must be taken daily. For many people, fewer injections make Wegovy and Mounjaro more convenient. Compare all three here.

Wegovy vs Ozempic

Although both contain semaglutide, Ozempic is licensed for type 2 diabetes, not weight loss. UK Meds does not recommend using Ozempic for weight management to prioritise supply for diabetes patients. Explore Ozempic.

Can I switch between medications?

Switching from Saxenda to Wegovy or another treatment may be possible but should only be done under medical supervision. Your prescriber will assess your progress, goals, and medical history to recommend the best approach.

Looking to lose weight naturally?

Alongside medication, small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Explore our simple, practical tips for healthy weight loss.

UK Meds is committed to providing you with the most accurate information possible regarding healthcare and lifestyle, as outlined in our Editorial Policy and Content Policy. We aim to regularly peer review and update our content as necessary to give you the most up-to-date medical information, helping you to be fully informed before starting a consultation with a registered prescriber for the treatment that you need.

Please note that our content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Before starting any treatment or making any changes that could affect your lifestyle, you should always speak with your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

16th July 2025

• Wegovy - Weight Management Tools
• Park Royal Medical Practice - Wegovy on the NHS
• BNF - Semaglutide
• Drugs.com - Wegovy
• WebMD - Wegovy
• Medicines.org.uk - Wegovy
• Health Media Blog - Accessing Wegovy for Weight Loss
• European Medicines Agency - Wegovy
• ScienceDirect - Semaglutide
• Key Facts About Wegovy - Diabetes Strong
• Semaglutide: A Complete Guide - Diabetes.co.uk

• What is Semaglutide? - An introduction to Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy.
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• Wegovy Prescription Requirements in the UK - Find out what you need to get a prescription for Wegovy.
• MHRA Approval for Wegovy - Details on the UK regulatory approval of Wegovy.
• Wegovy NHS Availability - Information on whether Wegovy is available through the NHS.
• Buy Wegovy UK Guide - A helpful guide on how to buy Wegovy in the UK.
• Choosing an Online Prescription Service for Wegovy - Advice on picking the best service for your needs.
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• Using a Wegovy Injection: Tips - Simple advice for making injections easy and safe.
• Tracking Your Progress with Wegovy - Tips for monitoring weight-loss progress with Wegovy.
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• Diet and Nutrition Tips When Using Wegovy - Nutrition advice to complement Wegovy treatment.
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• Common Side Effects of Wegovy - Learn about the possible side effects of taking Wegovy.
• Managing Wegovy Side Effects - Tips for handling common side effects of Wegovy.
• Wegovy Interactions with Other Medications - Information on how Wegovy interacts with other treatments.
• Serious Risks and Warnings of Wegovy - Important safety information about using Wegovy.
• Benefits and Risks of Using Wegovy - A balanced view of the advantages and risks of Wegovy.
• Can You Drink on Wegovy? - Guidance on alcohol consumption while using Wegovy.
• Why Am I Not Losing Weight on Wegovy? - Explore reasons why Wegovy might not work and how to address them.
• Wegovy Weight Loss Success Stories - Inspiring stories from people who lost weight with Wegovy.
• UK Patient Reviews for Wegovy - Honest feedback from UK patients using Wegovy.
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• Side Effects: Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro - A guide to understanding side effects for these weight-loss injections.
• Weight Loss Injections Comparison - Compare Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda injections.
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